Harper Government Invests in Ottawa's RBC Royal Bank Bluesfest

OTTAWA, April 24, 2012 /CNW/ - An investment in Ottawa's RBC Royal Bank
Bluesfest will help boost the local economy and create jobs and growth.
This support was announced today by Royal Galipeau, Member of
Parliament (Ottawa-Orléans) on behalf of the Honourable James Moore,
Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

RBC Royal Bank Bluesfest, one of Canada's largest outdoor music
festivals, will take place from July 4 to 15, 2012, at LeBreton Flats
Park and community venues in Ottawa. Audiences will enjoy over 250
musical performances featuring blues, world music, rock, jazz, and
folk. The festival has a history of booking top-notch international
acts and promoting Canadian artists.

The average annual attendance of the RBC Royal Bank Bluesfest is over
350,000 people. The festival contributes to the region's cultural
vitality and fosters a healthy local economy.

"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in
important arts festivals like Ottawa's RBC Royal Bank Bluesfest," said
Minister Moore. "By supporting one of Canada's foremost music
festivals, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen
our economy and provide increased access to the arts."

"Our Government is proud to support activities that promote artistic
excellence," said Mr. Galipeau. "RBC Royal Bank Bluesfest has an
international reputation for showcasing Canadian and world-class
musicians that attract tourists to Ottawa and generate economic growth
for the area."

The Government of Canada has provided total funding of $50,000 (in
2012-13) through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians
increased access to the variety and richness of Canada's culture
through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional
performances, and other artistic experiences.

For further information:

(media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages 819-997-7788